Page 181 of Reaper Said Mine

That gets my attention.

Wilcox rarely loses composure.

"The Combine destroys people," she says.

"I've noticed."

"I'm serious."

"So am I."

She shakes her head.

"You think governments are dangerous? Corporations make governments look honest."

I study her face.

The fear there is real, and it's directed at me.

"What aren't you telling me?"

She hesitates.

That hesitation tells me plenty.

"There are reports," she says.

"What reports?"

"Alliance reconnaissance."

My stomach knots.

"How bad?"

Wilcox looks out the viewport toward the stars.

"Bad enough that Gobold stopped making threats."

I stare at her.

"How bad?"

She meets my eyes.

"Three Alliance fleets are moving."

The words hit like a punch.

"No."

"Yes."

"That's insane."

"I agree."

"Nobody mobilizes three fleets over one dead executive."